Louis Vuitton’s most popular material, by far, is canvas (Monogram and Damier). Both are offered in several styles. LV’s Canvas is a coated material which is made water repellant (not resistant) and very durable. Vachetta leather is a natural hide used in combination with coated canvas on many of Louis Vuitton pieces. Vachetta leather darkens over time (oxidizes) giving it that beautiful and very sought after honey-colored patina. Vachetta is sensitive to water, and will obtain watermarks if left wet for extended periods of time. Counterfeiters frequently use treated leathers which don’t obtain the same kind of patina an authentic LV will. These pieces will often have an unnatural, plasticky shine to their surface.